Copilot Pro vs ChatGPT Plus: strengths and differences

The era of artificial intelligence has revolutionized the digital landscape, bringing many ambitious players to the forefront. Among the most prominent are the well-known ChatGPT by OpenAI and Microsoft Copilot, the AI-based digital assistant developed by the Redmond giant. While both are based on similar technologies and share similarities in their usage, the devil is in the details. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features of each and the differences that set them apart, to help determine which might be the right solution for your business.

Copilot Pro vs. ChatGPT Plus: an introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the way we work over the past three years, enabling almost anyone to write code, create art, and even make investments. For professionals, hobbyists, small-to-medium businesses, and even large organizations, generative AI tools like ChatGPT offer advanced capabilities to produce high-quality content from a simple user prompt.

ChatGPT Plus by OpenAI and Copilot Pro by Microsoft are among the most well-known names in the AI field today. However, these chatbots likely have more in common than other subscription-based AI software, as both platforms are built on versions of GPT-4. In theory, this means that one shouldn't be "smarter" than the other, but in practice, the reality is, of course, a bit more nuanced.

While the training data may be similar, the two platforms exhibit some clear differences in how they handle responses, the restrictions and limits imposed by Microsoft and OpenAI, and additional features that might influence the decision on where to invest for one's AI journey. Let’s clarify these differences in the upcoming sections.

What are ChatGPT and Copilot?

Let’s start with the basics: Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT are both generative artificial intelligence tools that use large language models (LLMs) to enhance productivity, efficiency, and creativity in various ways. Both originate from the research and technologies developed by OpenAI, the current leader in the artificial intelligence field.

ChatGPT is OpenAI’s proprietary web-based chatbot, powered by the ever-evolving Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT) created by OpenAI’s team. On the other hand, Microsoft Copilot is Microsoft’s AI chatbot, developed by the company in Redmond with support from OpenAI’s technology.

The technology behind both solutions, as mentioned in the introduction, is very similar: both are based on LLMs, offering natural language processing capabilities, and both rely on prompts, where users input a question into a chat system to receive a response from the bot.

However, Copilot is not just a Microsoft-branded version of ChatGPT. There are key differences between the two, concerning their functionality, use cases, data usage, and even security and privacy settings. Before delving into these details, this section will focus on introducing both contenders and their offerings to provide a clearer overview of the technologies we’ll discuss.

ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a generative AI-powered chatbot that leverages large language model technology, machine learning, and natural language processing to generate “natural” or human-like responses. It was initially launched in November 2022 by OpenAI.

ChatGPT is powered by deep learning techniques (such as transformer neural networks), enabling it to process text and generate responses that closely resemble human communication. The technology has been trained on vast amounts of text, including books, articles, and web pages.

Over the years, ChatGPT has evolved significantly. The GPT models used in the system have been continuously improved through OpenAI’s ongoing research. Recently, the company introduced GPT-4o, which adds multimodal capabilities and new features to tools like ChatGPT. OpenAI is also preparing to launch a series of new models described as “revolutionary,” such as the recently announced Orion.

ChatGPT is available in several versions, including:

• ChatGPT Free: The free version of ChatGPT, mainly intended to support OpenAI’s research and testing processes. This version provides limited access to the latest GPT models and offers fewer features than the paid alternatives.
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• ChatGPT Plus: The first premium subscription plan introduced by OpenAI. It provides access to more advanced GPT models, such as GPT-4 and GPT-4o, enabling users to benefit from faster response times and image generation capabilities with DALL-E.
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• ChatGPT Team: Designed to support organizations using generative AI, ChatGPT Team includes all the features of the Plus plan, along with unlimited access to advanced GPT models and tools to create custom GPTs. It also offers administrative console controls for teams, and user data is not used to train GPT models by default.
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• ChatGPT Enterprise: The most advanced ChatGPT plan, the Enterprise subscription includes all the features of the Team plan, plus additional administrative controls, domain verification, analytics, and account management support.

Microsoft Copilot

Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered productivity tool that utilizes LLMs (Large Language Models) and machine learning, similar to ChatGPT. Like ChatGPT, Copilot can respond to natural user inputs (prompts) with human-like answers.

However, unlike ChatGPT, Copilot is deeply integrated with Microsoft’s existing suite of products. It is embedded in tools like Microsoft Edge, Microsoft 365, Dynamics, Teams, Purview, Power Platform, and more.

Microsoft Copilot also leverages data from Microsoft Graph and the existing Microsoft ecosystem, making it more effective at contextualizing and personalizing responses compared to ChatGPT. Like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot is available in various forms, with specific pricing packages tailored to different use cases, such as:

• Copilot (Free): The free version of Copilot provides access to generative AI features for managing your computer (on Windows), online searches (in Edge), and general chatbot conversations on the web.
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• Copilot Pro: Similar to ChatGPT Plus, Copilot Pro is designed for individual users who want to maximize their use of generative AI. For approximately $20 per month, per user, it provides access to Copilot in various tools like Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.
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• Copilot for Microsoft 365: Similar to ChatGPT Team, Copilot for Microsoft 365 is aimed at individuals and teams working with Microsoft apps. It provides access to Copilot Studio, enterprise-grade security, privacy, and compliance, as well as advanced capabilities.

Additionally, there are various versions of Copilot designed for specific Microsoft tools. For example, Copilot solutions are integrated into Microsoft Dynamics for sales and customer service teams, as well as security Copilot solutions integrated into Microsoft Purview. Recently, Microsoft has also started launching and updating a series of “Agents” tailored to specific industries such as finance, customer service, and marketing, equipped with specialized training and features for these areas.

Until a few months ago, Microsoft was the largest investor in OpenAI, injecting billions of dollars into the company and becoming its majority shareholder until the Redmond-based company decided to pursue its own path in AI and ended the partnership.

While OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus was long considered a premium option for accessing top-tier AI capabilities, it has now been matched (and in some ways surpassed) by Microsoft’s Copilot Pro subscription.

Although many Windows 11 users were initially skeptical when Microsoft began emphasizing Copilot, the service has grown significantly since it was first introduced in preview mode. Today, it is regarded as one of the best productivity tools in the AI era.

Availability of ChatGPT and Copilot

Microsoft Copilot and OpenAI's ChatGPT are both available in free and paid versions, as we’ve already seen. With a subscription priced at approximately $20 per month for each, users can opt for Copilot Pro or ChatGPT Plus and take advantage of advanced AI-powered features not included in their respective free versions.

With both subscriptions, users gain access to GPT-4 Turbo and GPT-4o models, real-time information retrieval, image generation with DALL-E 3, and the ability to analyze specific types of documents and files. From here on, however, Copilot Pro and ChatGPT Plus offer unique benefits. So, how do you make the best choice for yourself and your organization?

Initially, Copilot Pro required a Microsoft 365 subscription to use its AI features in Word, Excel, OneNote, and other apps in the suite. Now, it’s possible to work with Copilot Pro not only in the paid desktop version but also in the free web version of Microsoft 365, which only requires a Microsoft account.

As for ChatGPT, OpenAI has integrated some benefits of the Plus version into the free version. The free edition now offers limited access to several features, including partial access to the latest GPT-4o model, advanced data analysis, file uploads, web browsing, and the ability to use custom GPTs from the GPT store.

Copilot Pro vs. ChatGPT Plus: use cases

At a general level, both Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT offer similar functionalities. They can be used for comparable purposes, such as composing emails, creating content, or writing code. Both tools are increasingly becoming multimodal, allowing users to create images with tools like DALL-E 3 (also available in Microsoft Designer). However, the intended use of these tools differs slightly.

ChatGPT use cases

ChatGPT’s features vary depending on the plan selected. With the free plan, users can access a basic version of the bot to create various types of content, such as messages, emails, cover letters, lists, and code. ChatGPT’s multimodal capabilities also allow users to generate content based on images and even design new visual elements.

With more advanced versions of ChatGPT, additional tools like the former “Code Interpreter” (now Advanced Data Analysis) are available, supporting data analysis. ChatGPT excels in specific tasks, such as:

• Creating conversational agents: Using ChatGPT APIs, businesses can develop conversational bots for a wide range of tasks.
• Content creation: ChatGPT is excellent at generating creative content and can also translate languages and create content in various formats.
• Informational research: ChatGPT (especially the Plus version) can answer a broad range of questions with accuracy and contextual relevance.
• Basic coding assistance: ChatGPT has gained popularity for helping programmers solve coding problems, although results may not always be 100% accurate.

Microsoft Copilot use cases

Perhaps the greatest advantage of Microsoft Copilot over ChatGPT is its seamless integration with the Microsoft ecosystem. It is available across the tools businesses use daily, such as Word, Outlook, Microsoft Teams, PowerPoint, and more.

Microsoft Copilot can perform almost everything ChatGPT does, so the functionalities listed above are also available within Copilot. The real difference lies in Copilot’s ability to leverage data from the existing Microsoft ecosystem, enhancing the features of various Microsoft tools designed for corporate workflows. For example, Copilot can:

• Create content: In tools like Microsoft Word, Copilot can generate content, extract information from the web, and more. It can also draft emails in Outlook, design presentations in PowerPoint, and create spreadsheets in Excel.
• Optimize meetings: In Microsoft Teams, Copilot can summarize meetings, suggest actions, translate and transcribe conversations in real time, and pull data from other Microsoft tools to support users during meetings.
• Automate repetitive tasks: Microsoft Copilot can automate numerous tasks, such as providing personalized user support through bots connected to Microsoft Dynamics and monitoring security risks in Purview.
• Enhance productivity: Microsoft Copilot simplifies data searches across a vast ecosystem of files and documents. It can summarize email threads, suggest ways to improve team performance, and even advise employees on when to visit the office and which spaces to book through Microsoft Places.

Copilot Pro vs. ChatGPT Plus: architecture, data training, tuning, and customization

Both Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT rely on similar core technology. They use the GPT architecture (Generative Pre-trained Transformer), an advanced language model technology leveraging natural language processing and machine learning capabilities.

However, unlike ChatGPT, Copilot is specifically optimized to assist users in various ways across Microsoft applications and tools. For instance, Microsoft Copilot in Microsoft Teams includes specific features to enhance meeting performance and collaboration. Microsoft Security Copilot, on the other hand, is tailored to improve enterprise security and compliance.

The data used by the two solutions also differs somewhat. Both are trained on a diverse dataset that includes a variety of content and data from the internet and other sources. However, each version of Copilot has a unique dataset tailored to its specific application.

Copilot also leverages data from each user's Microsoft ecosystem and Microsoft Graph. This means it can adapt to the specific data of your organization. While ChatGPT can be integrated into different platforms, Copilot's seamless integration within the Microsoft 365 suite allows users to receive more contextualized and personalized responses.

Both Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT are highly versatile. However, ChatGPT's customization options primarily rely on using APIs to connect it to systems for specific use cases. There are tools available that businesses can use to create and fine-tune unique versions of ChatGPT.

For example, in 2023, OpenAI announced a no-code platform for building custom ChatGPT models for enterprises. However, developing and utilizing custom versions of ChatGPT generally requires some technical expertise, even with a no-code builder.

Microsoft Copilot, on the other hand, makes it much easier to create custom generative AI tools. Copilot Studio, for example, provides businesses access to a platform where they can design Copilot solutions connected to various other platforms and data sources.

As mentioned earlier, it's also worth noting that Copilot offers a more personalized experience overall due to its ability to leverage data from a company's existing Microsoft applications.

Copilot Pro vs. ChatGPT Plus: security and compliance

All generative AI tools, including ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, are susceptible to data security, privacy concerns, and various ethical issues. Both tools may also encounter challenges related to AI biases and occasionally provide inaccurate responses to queries.

In both cases, the "free" versions of Copilot and ChatGPT may pose higher risks. For instance, OpenAI trains its language models on user conversations with ChatGPT unless users explicitly opt out or use the Team or Enterprise versions of the tool.

Microsoft, on the other hand, claims not to use customer data to train Copilot tools. Prompts, responses, and data accessed through Microsoft services are not used to enhance Copilot’s functionalities in any of its tools.

This suggests that, at least for business users, Copilot might be a safer option for those concerned about their data falling into the wrong hands. However, it is worth noting that both tools offer enhanced features for data control and access permissions with premium plans like Copilot Pro or ChatGPT Plus.

For Copilot specifically, compliance with data privacy regulations and frameworks is not just a requirement—it is a cornerstone of its design philosophy. The platform is carefully engineered to align with stringent data protection laws, ensuring that every aspect of data handling is transparent, secure, and respectful of user privacy.

Copilot provides a wide range of benefits to bolster an organization’s cybersecurity posture. By integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, it enables more efficient and effective security operations in the following key areas.

Incident response

‍Copilot dramatically reduces the time required to respond to security incidents by leveraging AI to automate initial analysis and prioritization. This rapid response capability ensures threats are contained and mitigated with minimal delay, significantly reducing potential damage.

Threat hunting

‍With advanced analytics and AI-driven insights, Copilot enhances cybersecurity professionals' ability to proactively identify and investigate suspicious activities. This proactive threat hunting helps uncover hidden risks before they can cause harm.

Intelligence gathering

‍Copilot collects and synthesizes information from diverse sources, delivering actionable insights to teams. This continuous flow of information improves decision-making and helps anticipate and mitigate future threats.

Conclusions

Companies and organizations of all types and sizes have long faced an abundance of options when selecting the most suitable artificial intelligence tools for their operational needs. However, not all tools prove to be the best choice in the long run, making it essential to identify which ones can stand the test of time.

Copilot Pro and ChatGPT Plus are among the most frequently chosen options in this space. While ChatGPT once reigned supreme in the AI technology landscape, competition has become increasingly fierce, with alternative AI tools striving to dethrone the giant. Among these, Copilot is undoubtedly the most compelling contender.

With its robust offering, native integration with Microsoft tools, and models specifically trained for corporate work (with even more advanced Agent features arriving in the coming months), Copilot has emerged as a highly viable—and in some cases superior—alternative to OpenAI's premium chatbot plans.

While the pricing and underlying technologies may be similar, the differences in use cases and the distinct approaches each company takes with their products can significantly impact the user experience. When it comes to business productivity, Copilot Pro currently stands out as the better choice.

With an already strong offering that is set to expand further with upcoming updates, Copilot could become a key element in helping companies simplify and streamline many of their operational processes. If your needs fall within the business/enterprise domain, Copilot might currently be the best choice to begin your journey into the world of AI technologies.

FAQ on Copilot Pro vs ChatGPT Plus

What are the differences between Copilot Pro and ChatGPT Plus?

Copilot Pro and ChatGPT Plus are generative AI tools based on large language models (LLMs). Copilot Pro is integrated into the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, providing assistance in applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, making it ideal for improving productivity in work environments. ChatGPT Plus, on the other hand, is a chatbot developed by OpenAI, designed to generate responses for a wide range of language-related requests, with a focus on conversational interaction and content creation.

What is Copilot Pro?

Copilot Pro is Microsoft’s AI-powered digital assistant designed to integrate with Microsoft 365 applications. Leveraging large language models and Microsoft Graph data, it provides personalized suggestions, automates repetitive processes, and enhances collaboration. It is an ideal tool for boosting productivity and simplifying daily tasks such as document writing or data analysis.

What versions of ChatGPT are available?

ChatGPT is available in multiple versions to meet different needs. The free version provides limited access to less advanced models and basic features. ChatGPT Plus is a premium version offering access to advanced models like GPT-4, faster response times, and additional features such as image generation with DALL-E. There is also a team version designed for businesses, including collaboration and management tools tailored to workplace environments.

What are the main features of Copilot Pro?

Copilot Pro assists users in completing complex tasks within Microsoft 365 applications, such as creating documents in Word, analyzing data in Excel, and preparing presentations in PowerPoint. It is designed to improve communication management in Outlook and collaboration in Microsoft Teams. Using artificial intelligence, Copilot Pro simplifies daily tasks and reduces the time required to complete complex projects.

How do Copilot Pro and ChatGPT Plus impact business productivity?

Both tools have a significant impact on business productivity, albeit in different ways. Copilot Pro, integrated into Microsoft 365 applications, automates repetitive tasks, supports collaboration, and optimizes workflows, making it particularly useful in structured corporate environments. ChatGPT Plus, with its natural language processing capabilities, is more suitable for tasks requiring creativity, idea generation, and responding to complex questions across a wide range of scenarios.